The Argentine ace was heavily linked with a summer move to the Premier League, but elected to stay in Spain and battle for his future under Carlo Ancelotti.

After initially appearing to be a key first-team player, Di Maria has now slipped down the pecking order following Gareth Bale’s return from injury.

The world-record Welshman was sidelined with fitness concerns in the opening weeks of his time at Los Blancos, but since his comeback he has formed a formidable front three with Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo.

As a result speculation of a winter move for Di Maria has once again surfaced, with Juventus now leading the queue.

The Old Lady are ready to offer the ex-Benfica man regular playing time in the build-up to the 2014 World Cup and a realistic shot at being a major player in their title charge.